Fox's Glade returners

with the days ebbing and flowing, winslet often found herself waking with the rising sun. early mornings brought her peace, clarity. to sit in the crisp snow and watch the sun inch over the horizon, basking the meadow in gold, was a joy she wouldn't take for granted. 

it was a time for reflection. the heartache, followed by guilt and wariness, still held onto her heart. but perhaps less so. she began to look beyond her fractured past, in hopes of new beginnings. cole had offered her such; the gentleman who'd helped ease her heart a few days back. 

he'd been on her mind heavily, as she'd watch the sunrise in the morn. his offer, his encouragement, his belief in her. it was a welcome respite from all the bad; he was a welcome respite.

and so with each new day, she'd find herself waiting. hoping. to see him again, and to tell him of her decision...it made her fragile heart flutter with anticipation. 

change was scary, but necessary. and no longer does she want to remain the same frightened, flightless bird.

this morning was different. while she had been swept up in hopeful dreams and visions of a brighter future, an oh so familiar scent taunts her. beckons her. he hadn't forgotten about her...

with a hopeful, small smile, she'd swept away from her perch to glide across the sheet of snow. less sorrowful than when they'd originally met. his figure outlined by the sun, her steps came faster. until she stood before him, tail swaying. 

"good morning, cole. it's good to see you again." she hummed. she wouldn't speak on how she'd wished he'd return, but there was a glimmer in her eyes that perhaps betrayed her. 

though, upon gentle inspection, her expression morphed into worry. sage eyes lingered on his wounds. not detrimental, but fresh enough to fill her with concern. she rounded his flank and frowned. "these are new...are you alright?" she asked softly.